- An additional 17 conditions will soon be treatable by qualified WA pharmacists
- The expanded healthcare role is part of the Cook Government's Enhanced Access Community Pharmacy Pilot
- The initiative will make it easier for Western Australians to access care for everyday health conditions, reducing pressure on hospitals and GPs
- Participating pharmacists begin training next month
The full list of conditions that will soon be treatable by qualified pharmacists under the Cook Labor Government's Enhanced Access Community Pharmacy Pilot has been announced.
This initiative will make it easier for Western Australians to receive convenient treatment for everyday health conditions, reducing pressure on hospitals and GPs.
Training will begin next month for the first cohort of pharmacists through accredited Graduate Certificate programs at Western Australian universities.
The Cook Government is subsidising training costs for some applicants through a $1.26 million investment in the 2025-26 State Budget.
Eligible pharmacists in rural and remote areas will attract a higher subsidy.
Under the expanded pilot, pharmacists will also be able to diagnose and provide treatment for:
- Asthma;
- Smoking cessation;
- Shingles;
- Impetigo;
- Mild psoriasis;
- Mild to moderate acne;
- Mild to moderate atopic dermatitis;
- Mild, acute musculoskeletal pain;
- Allergic and nonallergic rhinitis;
- Acute otitis externa;
- Acute otitis media;
- Acute nausea and vomiting;
- Acute minor wound management;
- Gastro-oesophageal reflux and Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease;
- Hormonal contraception;
- Weight loss and management of obesity; and
- Oral health risk assessment and fluoride application.
This pilot follows on from previous pharmacy-based initiatives in WA, including treatment for simple urinary tract infections, resupply of the oral contraceptive pill and pharmacist-administered vaccinations.
The program is on track to launch late next year, subject to training completion.
As stated by Health Minister Meredith Hammat:
"This complete list of conditions has been developed after extensive consultation, with safety and accessibility front-of-mind.
"By enhancing the skills of community pharmacists, we are reducing pressure on hospitals and GPs while giving patients safe, effective care options closer to home.
"This practical initiative will make it easier for Western Australians to access diagnosis and treatment for everyday health conditions, no matter where they live.
"We look forward to training starting soon for the first cohort of pharmacists.
"This pilot reflects our commitment to making the most of our highly trained pharmacy workforce and strengthening care in the community"
